When Diane Sugimura, the director of the Seattle Department of Planning and Development, "crashed" the 50th birthday party of Ballard environmentalist, Vic Opperman, to present her with an official proclamation, the surprised birthday girl appeared overwhelmed with delight, and responded, "Am I dreaming?"

Sugimura read the proclamation by a bonfire in the rain in Opperman's backyard. The framed document honored Opperman on her birthday in conjunction with Seattle's Neighborhood Appreciation Day, Feb. 9.

Prior to Sugimura's presentation, city councilmember, Sally Clark, rounded up her colleagues to sign the proclamation, which honors Opperman's work with Sustainable Ballard, her co-founding SCALLOPS, or Sustainable Communities all over Puget Sound, and her input, via the Ballard Chamber of Commerce, in making the 2007 Seafoodfest a green event.

Each of seven times when Sugimura read the word "Whereas," nearly 20 guests playfully screamed "WHEREAS!" in unison. Added Sugimura, "It's wonderful to be around Vic and all the people here. I'm always amazed at what's going on with (Sustainable Ballard.) We want to have sustainability in all our neighborhoods and want it included in our neighborhood plan."

With that Opperman called out, "Three cheers for Diane." And the crowd obliged with three "Hip, Hip, Hoorays!"

Opperman's party cast a small carbon footprint as many guests arrived on bicycles, and supplied hand-cranked flashlights and radios, to add a touch of sustainable atmosphere.

Contact Steve Shay at steves@robinsonnews.com